Chicken and Rice Casserole

There is a question that I am often asked by many of my readers, as well as friends and strangers; why did you start a food blog?

I grew up watching my Mom prepare beautiful, super delicious dinners, day after day. She worked 7 to 3, but she always managed to have a home cooked meal for us. No matter how tired or busy she was, she was never too busy to feed us amazing meals. I also remember her baking elegant desserts, scrumptious cakes, and fresh bread! Superwoman? Possibly.

What I’m mostly thankful for, though, is that she always allowed my sister and I to partake in the kitchen. Whether it was holding the wooden spoon and pretending to season the veggies, or holding her hand while she held the mixer, we were always involved.

Also? I LOVED washing the dishes. I was 6 years old and my favorite task was to wash dishes! So weird. And awesome! I dislike it now, but back then it was FUN! But, my mom’s strategy paid off.

According to University of Michigan’s Project EAT, kids who prepare meals with their parents are more likely to eat healthier as adults while those who are not taught cooking skills resort to quick fixes like fast food. In other words, teaching them how to cook teaches them how to eat.

I completely agree with the above. I have never had a Big Mac, I don’t know where Wendy’s is, and no matter how much butter or pasta I eat, I am still considered “skinny”, and have very healthy eating habits. Just ask my family and friends!

Because I want my children to feel as lucky as I do, they are almost always involved in the cooking and baking process. Honestly? Just washing the vegetables keeps them happy! But, when I let Ana stir the rice into the water?? Oh, that is a time to celebrate!

When Uncle Ben’s asked me to promote their Uncle Ben’s Beginners program, I had to accept. I think it is extremely important to cook with your kids to not only spend time together, but to also teach them about good food choices.

One of my kid’s favorite meals that includes rice is this Chicken and Rice Casserole. It’s easy, it’s quick, straight forward, and they absolutely love it!

Gather your kids, find your camera, and make this casserole, together. Then, you can submit your video to The Ben’s Beginners Cooking Contest and you might win $15,000 for your family and a $30,000 cafeteria makeover for your school!!